Known for her exceptional marketing acumen, Akindele launched promotional campaigns months in advance to build anticipation for the movie.

True to her tradition of bold and innovative marketing strategies, the acclaimed filmmaker has captivated audiences through teasers, social media engagements, and exclusive events.

On November 20, 2024, at an exclusive Exhibitor Soirée held at Filmhouse Cinemas, Akindele shared her ambitious goal. She expressed confidence in achieving the ₦5 billion target, highlighting the film’s appeal and the extensive promotional efforts behind it.

Akindele’s strategic approach, coupled with her proven track record, positions Everybody Loves Jenifa as one of the most anticipated releases of the year.

Her unique ability to connect with diverse audiences ensures strong box office potential, reinforcing her status as a leading figure in Nigeria’s film industry.

Before its weekend release, Gladiator II generated significant momentum. On Wednesday, it earned ₦8.13 million, followed by ₦8.96 million on Thursday.

An advanced screening earlier in the week pulled in ₦17 million across two days, showcasing strong local anticipation. These milestones cement the film as one of 2024’s top-performing titles in Nigeria.

The sequel, directed by Ridley Scott, follows Lucius, the nephew of Maximus, the heroic protagonist of the original Gladiator. After ruthless Roman emperors seize his home, Lucius embraces the life of a gladiator to seek revenge and restore Rome’s glory.

The film delves into timeless themes of vengeance and redemption, set against the backdrop of ancient Rome.

Featuring a star-studded cast including Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, and Denzel Washington, Gladiator II has captivated Nigerian audiences. The movie’s strong local performance underscores the growing appeal of global cinema in Nigeria.

On the international stage, Gladiator II debuted with an estimated $87 million, marking the largest opening weekend for any Ridley Scott film.

This success highlights the sequel’s long-awaited arrival, nearly two decades after Gladiator premiered in 2000. The development of the sequel spanned years, with numerous script drafts considered before the final version emerged in 2018. Paul Mescal joined the cast in early 2023, solidifying the project’s momentum.

Written by David Scarpa (Napoleon) in collaboration with Peter Craig, Gladiator II was distributed by Paramount Pictures.

Filming took place between June 2023 and January 2024, delivering a cinematic masterpiece that bridges nostalgia and modern storytelling.

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